Nor was he deceived.

Mervale was passing by the threshold, and Gionetta had told him his friend was within.

Who does not know the effect of the world's laugh?
Mervale was the personation of the world.

The whole world seemed to shout derision in those ringing tones.

He drew back,--he recoiled.
Viola followed him with her earnest, impatient eyes.